China's first space telescope to launch in 2011

China's first space telescope is a step closer to its expected launch date in 2011.

China's first space telescope is a step closer to its expected  launch date in 2011.

All the key technical difficulties have been overcome and a full size prototype has now been built. China's space telescope is a Hard X-ray Modulation Telescope, which makes it different from Hubble. It has the highest sensitivity and resolution in the world.

The space telescope won't be affected by the atmospheric conditions which usually hamper ground observations. China has made great efforts since 2000 to develop HXMT technology. The mission will be a milestone in the development of China's space exploration and astronomical sciences.